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Spotlight on Santa Gertrudis

December 2, 2015Uncategorized

The town of Santa Gertrudis is geographically located in the very heart of the island of Ibiza. Its whitewashed houses, plentiful bars and restaurants and colourful boutiques make it a hugely popular spot for visitors to spend a day shopping, dining, and soaking up the ambience and rich history of this small yet picturesque village.

Shopping

As you approach the village from the road coming from Ibiza, keep an eye to your right and look out for a field full of cows.. however, these ones don’t move or moo, they are figures and are there to act as a guide to the wonderful homeware store Sluiz which is situated directly behind the field full of cows. This marvellous warehouse style building is simply overflowing with beautiful artwork, soft furnishings, furniture, clothes and a whole host of other treasures, an absolute must do in our opinion! Inside the village itself you will find a host of colourful boutiques, selling clothing, jewellery, bags and other mementoes. One of the most popular is Es Cucons La Tienda , which is simply bursting with colour and style. Here you will find men’s and women’s fashion, perfect for the Ibiza beach lifestyle. The Rose is another firm favourite, and is very much like a colourful spring garden in full bloom, dedicated to fashion, primarily the hand-sewn silk collections designed by co-owner Claudina Damonte. Classic tunics and trousers, elegant cocktail frocks, stylish ponchos, simple kaftans, ruffled maxi-dresses, ultra-soft scarves and so much more line the walls of The Rose, all created from natural silks sourced in Asia.

Wining and Dining

You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating and drinking here. Although the village is small in size, it has an abundance of fabulous bars, cafes and restaurants, probably one of the reasons it is always so popular with residents and visitors alike! For some seriously good Italian fayre head to Macau Café, run by the formidable Luca, where you can dine under the stars in their beautiful terraced garden. They also have a crèche area so your little ones can be entertained as you soak up the atmosphere. Vegans and health food fans will be in heaven at Wild Beets which serves only raw, vegan dishes, and has a truly innovative, healthy and appealing menu of meals, juices and smoothies. An eternal favourite meeting point is Musset, where you can enjoy coffee, snacks and delicious cakes and watch the world go by.

History

The town has evolved over the years around it central point, the ancient church, which has always been the hub of the community. Built in 1785 under the command of the bishop Abad Lasierr, the pretty whitewashed chapel retains its original features to this day. Visitors are very welcome to take a look around so long as no services are being held. Entrance is free but there is a donations box, where voluntary donations are always gratefully received. The village has long been a haven for artists, bohemian types and musicians, many of whom made their homes here in the 60’s and 70’s. These days, a mixed crowd resides in the village, from old Ibicencan farmers to yummy mummies, and of course the bohemian set who simply came and never left! A most charming and welcoming community.

So, be sure to include a visit to Santa Gertrudis on your Ibiza itinerary, as it truly has so much to offer to everyone.